Venues in Dover district recognised for keeping the community safe

Pubs, clubs and restaurants in Dover district have been recognised by Kent Police and partner agencies for their continued commitment to keeping the district safe.

Best Bar None is a voluntary accreditation scheme supported by the Home Office and drinks industry that aims to improve standards in the evening and night-time economy.

On Monday 2 December 2024, the Best Bar None awards were held in the Dover District Council Chambers to highlight the eight venues accredited under the scheme. Police work with the council and Dover Partnership Against Crime to support the venues through the scheme.

A Community Ambassador Award was introduced this year to recognise an outstanding commitment to the community and was awarded to The Art Club.

Keeping the public safe

Kent Police has worked with partner agencies including local councils to establish the nationally recognised Best Bar None scheme across the county.

By agreeing to join the scheme, publicans have shown their commitment to work with police, council and other businesses to reduce crime and keep their communities safe.

They must also be able to demonstrate their competency in four key areas – venue management, staff training and care, customer safety and welfare, and customer service and community.

The venues who have been accredited are: Elephant and Hind Public House, Dover; The Eight Bells, Dover; The Duchess, Dover; The Art Club, Dover; The Cricketers, Dover; Sir Norman Wisdom, Deal; The Queen Street Tap, Deal and Acordo Lounge, Deal.

Working together

PC Danielle Rolfe, Licensing Officer for Dover, said:
'The Best Bar None scheme allows police to work with venues to keep people safe, prevent offences from occurring and promote safer socialising. 'I congratulate those premises whose efforts were celebrated at this event, and I look forward to continuing to work with them in the future.'

District Commander for Dover, Chief Inspector Liz Cokayne-Delves, said:
'The scheme has gone from strength to strength across the district and it is positive to see that businesses are recognising the importance of their own responsibilities and working with police and partner agencies to keep their customers safe. 'By working towards best practice and the running of safe licensed venues, it can reduce crime and disorder associated with alcohol consumption and will ultimately create a safer environment in the community.'

Cllr Charlotte Zosseder, Dover District Council’s Cabinet Member for Community, said:
'We are very pleased to welcome the latest Best Bar None accreditations, and to continue to support this initiative. 'Best Bar None helps to identify well-run pubs, bars, clubs and other businesses that serve alcohol, to focus on the safety of the customer, and to make sure the district continues to be a great place to live, work, visit and socialise.'